You are here:
Engineered nano materials and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Research at the Western Ecology Division in Oregon, USA
Citation:
ANDERSEN, C. P., M. G. JOHNSON, AND P. T. RYGIEWICZ. Engineered nano materials and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Research at the Western Ecology Division in Oregon, USA. Presented at 5th International Conference on Man and Environment: Enemies or Friends, Pushchino, RUSSIA, June 22 - 24, 2011.
Impact/Purpose:
Engineered nanoparticles represent a unique hazard to human health and the environment because their inherent characteristics differ significantly from commonly used chemicals and bulk forms of materials.
Description:
Engineered nanoparticles represent a unique hazard to human health and the environment because their inherent characteristics differ significantly from commonly used chemicals and bulk forms of materials. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for protecting humans and the environment from adverse effects of new chemicals as they are developed by industry. Two U.S. laws governing the use of most engineered nanoparticles will be discussed. A promising area of research related to nanoparticle manufacture is “green chemistry,” the goal of which is to identify particle attributes leading to toxicity so particles can be re-engineered without toxic properties. Developing this fundamental understanding should allow toxicologists to work with industry to develop safer nano materials. International efforts also are underway to standardize testing protocols to decrease regulatory barriers to industry. Research is being conducted at the Western Ecology Division to examine the effects of nano particles on plants and soil organisms.